Long Beach Gospel Fest brings joyful music to downtown

The City of Long Beach is pleased to host The Long Beach Gospel Fest and Downtown Worship Experience, on Sunday, July 12, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Pine Avenue between Broadway and 1st Street.

Pine Avenue will be blocked off from 1st Street to Broadway to make way for the glory of Gospel on Sunday, July 12. The gospel festival is sponsored by the office of Councilman Dee Andrews, Antioch Church of Long Beach Pastor Wayne Chaney Jr., and Pine Avenue business owner John Morris.

The Long Beach Gospel Fest is expected to bring thousands of spectators from all over the city. “I am very excited to be a part of the Gospel Fest knowing that it will bring so many of the Long Beach residents together. This will be one of the country’s most unique environments to experience gospel music and brunch with beautiful city views, ocean breezes, and delectable dining,” said John Morris.

“I got a good feeling about this festival and it is a long-time coming because every major city has one and what a great way to raise the spirit of our city,” said Councilman Andrews.

“I thank God that this day has finally arrived. This Gospel Festival will be one of the City’s premier events for years to come,” said Pastor Chaney.

The gospel festival will include both local choirs and national performers. Pine Avenue restaurants have agreed to prepare a special brunch for all those that attend the festival and they are donating a percentage of their proceeds to help fund the 2010 Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace and Unity Celebration. “I am very honored that Antioch Church of Long Beach and the downtown business owners have chosen the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration as this event’s beneficiary. It is neighbors like this that keep our community strong,” said Councilman Andrews.

The Long Beach Gospel Fest is entirely free and everyone is welcome to join in the celebration of community and the joy of gospel music.

For more information about the Long Beach Gospel Festival, call Antioch Church of Long Beach at (562) 591-8778 or visit them on the web at www.longbeachgospelfest.com.